March 2019 – Israeli lawmakers passed a bill to conclude its current Knesset (legislative) session early – after three-and-a-half years. As a result, the 20th Knesset ended December 26, 2018, and elections will take place April 9, rather than in November.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emerged as the solid favorite for re-election in the first significant round of opinion polls. However, while most Israelis do not believe Netanyahu should continue as prime minister, no other candidate has risen to the forefront.
At press time, Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit’s office is reviewing materials to determine whether charges will be brought against Netanyahu on several recent corruption allegations. Netanyahu denies any wrongdoing.
